Circa 1930s Walter Johnson Handwritten Letter with Ruth and Cobb Content

Sold For:

$2,520

Year:

1933

Auction:

2020 Spring

Lot #:

1535

Category:

Autographed Baseballs/Flats/Photos

One-page handwritten letter from Hall of Fame pitcher Walter Johnson. In his undated letter, on a piece of plain, unlined paper, Johnson responds to a fan asking for a comparison between Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb. In full: "Dear Dick, I am sorry to be so late. Cobb and Ruth were different kind of hitters altogether. Cobb would get more hits but Ruth would hit more home runs. Good luck. Sincerely, Walter Johnson." Both the text and signature are scripted in black fountain pen and grade "7/8" overall. The letter (5.75 x 4.25 inches), which has been trimmed to its current dimensions, is toned and displays a vertical fold, two small notebook holes along the left border, and small amounts of paper residue. It has been affixed to a slightly heavier paper backing of equal dimensions. In Good to Very Good condition overall. Pre-certified by Steve Grad and Brian Sobrero/Beckett Authentication Services. Reserve $300. Estimate (open).